49ers-Broncos Joint Practice Turns Dramatic: Mykel Williams’ Knee Injury Sparks Concern as Purdy, Offense Stage Powerful Rally
The San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos wrapped up their joint practice session with a mix of tension, resilience, and high-energy plays on Thursday, but the storyline that dominated the day was the unsettling sight of rookie defensive end Mykel Williams going down with an apparent knee injury.
Williams, the 2024 third-round pick out of Georgia, had been one of the breakout performers in camp, impressing both teammates and coaches with his blend of speed and power off the edge. His early dominance had many fans already picturing him in a key rotational role this season. But midway through Thursday’s session in Centennial, Colorado, the momentum shifted when Williams dropped to the turf clutching his knee after attempting to chase down Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham on a rollout.
Trainers immediately rushed to his side, and the practice field fell silent as teammates knelt nearby. Williams was helped off the field without putting weight on his right leg, and though the team has not released an official diagnosis, the initial visual was enough to raise concern among fans and media.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the anxious mood afterward.
“We won’t know anything until we get the MRI results, but obviously, we’re hoping for the best,” Shanahan said. “Mykel’s been working his tail off. He’s made an impact since day one, and you hate to see this happen to any player—especially someone who’s been ascending the way he has.”
Purdy and the Offense Flip the Script
Before the injury, much of the practice was trending toward the Broncos’ defense. The 49ers’ offensive line had struggled in the early team periods, giving up multiple pressures, and quarterback Brock Purdy found himself scrambling more than usual.
But after Williams’ exit, it was as if a switch flipped for the San Francisco offense. Purdy began connecting on quick-hitting routes to Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, using rhythm and tempo to counter Denver’s pass rush. The highlight came during a red-zone drill, when Purdy rolled to his right and, on the move, threaded a dart to tight end George Kittle between two defenders for a touchdown that drew loud cheers from the 49ers sideline.
Running backs Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell also found their groove late, slicing through gaps for chunk gains. The offensive surge seemed to reinvigorate the team after the emotional low of Williams’ injury.
“We wanted to respond,” Purdy said after practice. “Football’s emotional. You hate to see a teammate go down, but the best way we can honor him is to play hard and execute.”
Broncos Bring the Heat, But Show Respect
On the other side, Denver’s defense, led by pass rusher Nik Bonitto and cornerback Pat Surtain II, made life difficult for San Francisco early. The Broncos secondary broke up multiple passes, including a spectacular leaping deflection by Surtain that had even some 49ers players nodding in appreciation.
Broncos head coach Sean Payton spoke respectfully about the joint practice atmosphere.
“Both teams competed hard, but you also saw a lot of mutual respect,” Payton said. “We got good work in against one of the best rosters in the league.”
What’s Next for the 49ers
While Purdy’s late rally and the offense’s resurgence were positives, all eyes will remain on Mykel Williams’ medical results. If the injury proves significant, the 49ers may have to adjust their pass-rush rotation before the preseason finale. Veterans like Drake Jackson and Clelin Ferrell could see expanded roles, while the team might explore free-agent options.
Fans have already taken to social media to express both their support for Williams and excitement about the offensive flashes. On X (formerly Twitter), the phrase “Prayers for Mykel” began trending among 49ers circles within an hour of practice ending.
For now, the 49ers leave Colorado with a mixed bag—proof their offense can rally under pressure, but also a reminder of how fragile an NFL season can be when injuries strike.
